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Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition that results in neck and arm pain due to a pinched nerve in the neck. The pain often radiates down the arm in a specific distribution, which correlates with the nerve that is being compressed in the neck.

Causes:

– Degenerative disc disease

– Arthritis in the spine

– Bone spurs (overgrowth of bone)

Symptoms:

– Neck pain

– Arm pain

– Numbness and tingling in the upper extremities

Diagnosis:

In order to confirm the diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy, an MRI of the cervical spine is required. This imaging study will identify the location and specific nerve root that is being compressed. Additionally, an electromyogram (EMG) may be ordered to determine if the nerve is being compressed further down in the arm as well or if the damage to the nerves are the result of a medical condition such as diabetes.

Treatment:

There are various treatment options for cervical radiculopathy and the course of management is dependent on the etiology or specific causes of the patient’s condition. Conservative treatment options include Physical therapy, interventional pain management, chiropractic care, and medications. If surgical intervention is required, surgical treatment of cervical radiculopathy typically involves performing an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion